Epipen Jr—In the event of a major reaction

People can be afraid to use EpiPens because it can be unnerving to administer a shot, BUT if J is having an allergic reaction that includes ANY of the following:

1) Full body hives

2) Any facial swelling

3) Vomiting and any hives

4) Any signs of difficulty breathing

5) Major shifts in personality

6) Limpness

THen GIVE HER the EPI PEN JR IMMEDIATELY

EpiPen Jr (adrenaline dosed for children) is THE treatment for a severe allergic reaction. It works best when given early in the allergic reaction. You do NOT wait until the symptoms have gone from bad to worse to give the shot. You give it when the symptoms first appear. EpiPens come in a two pack because there can be something called a “biphasic reaction” where the symptoms resolve but then return (this can happen in a matter of minutes or in a matter of hours). If you give Epi, symptoms resolve, and then reappear, go ahead and give the second Epi. Anytime you’ve given Epi you are also calling 911 and going to the hospital to be monitored. Even if Epi wasn’t totally clinically necessary, it is much better safe than sorry. There are no major ill effects from using Epi.

Watch this video for a demo/information on EpiPens. Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh. Don’t pull the needle out too soon (or the medication won’t get in)… You’ll be nervous so sing a “Row Row Row your Boat” with the Epi Pen inserted to make sure you don’t pull the needle out too soon.

Our EpiPen Jrs are on the built in cabinet next to our table and inside our diaper bag.